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Most common type of domestic akita, similar to the shiba inu.

Need something to boost your mood while giving you a tour of a Japanese city in an adorable fashion? Say no more. Also, if you’re a fan of dogs, Japan, or both, you’re going to love Google Map’s new feature.

On Friday, March 9, Google Street view released “Pup View,” where you can tour the Japanese city of Odate on the back of an akita to explore from their perspective.

An Akita is generally a large sized, fluffy dog that is said to originate from the northern mountains of Japan. In the feudal era, they protected nobles and royals, and were used to hunt boar, deer, and even bears. They’re said to be one of the most loyal dogs.

The most famous example of this comes from the story of the akita named Hachiko. He waited for his owner at the Shibuya train station each day at the time he would come home, until one day, th

Photo of Hachiko waiting at the train station. (Photo courtesy of natursan)

e man suddenly died. Hachiko continued to show up at the train station every day at the same time for the rest of his life, waiting for his owner to return. There’s a statue in his honor at the train station located in Odate.

The pups Ako, Puuko, and Asuka were taken on walks around the city wearing 360 degree cameras strapped on a safe harness to their back. They captured the local areas and attractions such as hot springs like Hikage Onsen, restaurants, parks, and historical areas, such as Hachi’s statue at the Shibuya trainStation.

The street view tour took the town-wide trip in the winter. They may do it again for other seasons in the future.

What a way to experience Street View! It takes a minute of tinkering to figure it out, but view it here.

This is honestly so adorable. The article is very well written and sounds almost like an advertisement in the beginning. It would be interesting to see other locations besides just Japan. I like how you included another famous story about the Akita. Overall great article.